Impact Resistant Headgear

Smart overview of the Invention

The disclosed headgear is designed to reduce impact by utilizing dynamically responsive materials that change physically when exposed to impact forces, thereby absorbing energy. The helmet features a dual shell structure and a bladder which houses these materials. This design aims to address both external and internal impacts that can lead to brain injuries, including Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

Background

Many activities, including sports, expose the head to impact forces that can cause brain injuries. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) has been linked to repeated minor impacts, particularly in sports like football. CTE results from brain injuries caused by the coup-contrecoup (C-C) motion, where the brain moves within the skull upon impact. Symptoms of CTE include memory loss and mood swings, with diagnosis currently only possible post-mortem.

Material Properties

The invention utilizes thixotropic, rheopectic, and dilatant materials. Thixotropic materials become less viscous under stress, absorbing energy, while rheopectic materials become more viscous with stress. Dilatant fluids quickly increase in viscosity under stress. Combining these materials can tailor the helmet's energy absorption characteristics, potentially enhancing protection against impacts.

Design Features

The helmet's dual shell structure enhances energy absorption. The outer shell is less rigid, deflecting on impact to protect the skull while maintaining contact through the inner shell. Dynamically responsive materials in the gap between shells undergo phase changes to absorb energy. Strategic placement of these materials can optimize helmet movement and energy absorption during impacts.

Additional Embodiments

Additional designs include an engagement member that translates compressive strain into tensile strain across the helmet, enhancing energy absorption through dynamically responsive materials. An impact measurement system is also proposed, using a pressure-sensitive member that ruptures below CTE-inducing forces, providing an indication of potentially harmful impacts.